SHILLONG, Feb 10: The state government has urged the Centre to reconsider its decision to halt funding for the Border Area Development (BAD) programme and reinstate it in the state.
“Border Area Development programme was in place for many years. From 2021 onwards this programme was discontinued by the Centre. We have communicated to the central government to continue the programme as it helps build infrastructure, schools, roads, hospitals, bridges, etc,” Border Area Development Minister, Rakkam A Sangma said on Monday.
According to the Minister, while small developmental projects such as construction of community halls and schools continue, the major portion of infrastructure development in these areas has experienced a setback since the programme was discontinued. “It was a GOI programme under a 90:10 funding scheme,” he added.
The suspension of funds under the BAD programme in Meghalaya has been attributed to multiple factors. In April 2024, the central government directed all border states, including Meghalaya, to halt the implementation of BADP schemes pending a comprehensive review. This directive was issued to assess and enhance the programme’s effectiveness.
Additionally, concerns have been raised regarding the utilization of previously allocated funds. Reports indicate that the three district councils in Meghalaya utilized only 53% of the Rs 567.71 crore sanctioned by the Centre for various developmental schemes between 2015 and 2020. The failure to submit utilization certificates (UCs) for these funds has also been noted, suggesting potential issues in fund management and reporting.
While the immediate suspension of BADP funds is linked to a central government review, underlying issues—such as underutilization of funds and the non-submission of UCs by state authorities—have also contributed to the halt in funding.
Meanwhile, when asked about the special scholarships for students in the border areas, he said, “I think if I am not wrong this is ongoing.”
